Worlds End an eyecatcher before his Stayers' Hurdle mission

After the first race on Cheltenham’s Trials Day, the verdict from most of the jockeys was that the ground was riding heavy after persistent rain throughout the morning. Still, despite the desperate ground, I fancy one or two Cheltenham Festival winners may emerge given 37 have done so since 1993.

Apple’s Shakira
Winner, 2m1f Grade 2 juvenile hurdle, Cheltenham, Saturday, January 27
Last year this race produced the Triumph Hurdle winner Defi Du Seuil and I wouldn’t want to bet against this year’s winner. She looked bright and well and recorded her third victory around this track. Settling nicely, the daughter of Saddler Maker moved through with menace coming down the hill and, while she had to work to get on top, I think she will definitely appreciate better ground.

Look My Way isn’t overly big but shone in the paddock and stepped up on his previous form to finish an honourable second. He still has plenty of potential.